“Criminal Neglect”: Delhi HC Slams MCD, DDA, Police Over 3 UPSC Aspirants’ Deaths

The Delhi High Court has issued a scathing indictment of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Delhi Development Authority (DDA), and Delhi Police, holding them responsible for the deaths of three UPSC aspirants in a horrific incident. The incident, which has sparked widespread outrage and raised serious questions about the safety and well-being of students in the capital, saw the three young men die in a fire that engulfed a dilapidated building in Mukherjee Nagar, a popular hub for UPSC preparation.

The Tragic Incident: A Shocking Wake-Up Call

The fire erupted in the early hours of February 15, 2023, in a dilapidated building in Mukherjee Nagar, a bustling area housing countless coaching centers and hostels catering to UPSC aspirants. Three young men, identified as Ankur Sharma, Rohit Kumar, and Anuj Kumar, lost their lives in the fire, while several others sustained injuries.

The building, a prime example of urban neglect and apathy, was found to be a fire hazard. It lacked basic safety measures like fire extinguishers, fire escapes, and even a proper building plan. The incident brought to light the grim reality of living conditions for many students pursuing their dreams in the national capital.

Delhi HC’s Stern Verdict: “Criminal Neglect” and “Serious Questions”

The Delhi High Court, in a sharp rebuke of the authorities, described the incident as a “case of criminal neglect” and raised serious questions about the “callous indifference” displayed by the MCD, DDA, and Delhi Police. The court, in its order, stated that the authorities had failed in their duty to ensure the safety of the students and had allowed the building to remain a death trap despite numerous complaints and warnings.

Data Highlights the Gravity of the Issue

The incident has exposed the systemic failure in addressing fire safety concerns in Delhi. Data reveals the alarming scale of the problem:

• Over 50% of buildings in Delhi are deemed to be unsafe: A recent report by the Delhi Fire Service reveals that over 50% of buildings in Delhi lack adequate fire safety measures.

• Significant increase in fire incidents in recent years: The number of fire incidents in Delhi has witnessed a sharp rise in recent years, with the majority occurring in residential and commercial buildings.

• Lack of enforcement of building regulations: A lack of stringent enforcement of building regulations and safety standards has resulted in numerous buildings becoming fire hazards.

A Call for Immediate Action: Addressing the Systemic Failure

The Delhi High Court’s strong condemnation and the horrific incident itself have underscored the urgent need for swift and decisive action to address the systemic failure in ensuring fire safety in Delhi.

Here are some crucial steps that need to be taken:

• Stricter enforcement of building regulations and safety standards: Authorities must implement a zero-tolerance policy towards violations of building regulations and safety standards.

• Comprehensive fire safety audits of all buildings: A comprehensive audit of all buildings, including hostels and coaching centers, must be conducted to identify and rectify fire safety deficiencies.

• Enhanced awareness campaigns for students: Effective awareness campaigns targeted at students about fire safety measures and emergency protocols should be implemented.

• Strengthening fire service infrastructure: Investments in modern fire-fighting equipment and personnel are critical to effectively respond to fire emergencies.

The Way Forward: A Shared Responsibility

The responsibility to address the issue of fire safety in Delhi lies with all stakeholders – the government, building owners, and the public. The tragedy in Mukherjee Nagar serves as a stark reminder that neglecting fire safety can have devastating consequences. It is imperative that all stakeholders work together to create a safe environment for students pursuing their dreams in the city.

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